Are you missing out on your favorite Aussie TV while traveling abroad? Gain unrestricted access to your favorite Aussie TV shows while abroad with the help of a Virtual Private Network (VPN). We understand how frustrating it can be to miss out on your beloved Australian channels while traveling. That’s why we’ve thoroughly tested and researched the best VPNs tailored explicitly for Australian TV so you can stay connected to the content you love.
The need for protection regarding online privacy is more significant than ever. Your web browsing activities are constantly under surveillance by various entities, including your employer, Internet Service Provider (ISP), and government. With a VPN, you can rest assured that your internet traffic is encrypted, making it indecipherable to prying eyes without the proper decryption key.
But that’s only some of what a VPN can do for you. One of the most significant advantages of using a VPN is the ability to spoof your location. Many streaming platforms, including Australian TV channels, are geographically restricted. However, by connecting to a VPN server in Australia, you can replace your real IP address with an Australian one, granting you access to your usual services from anywhere in the world.
So, whether in the UK, the USA, or any other location, you no longer need to feel disconnected from your favorite Australian TV series and movies. Our carefully curated list of top VPNs with Australian IP addresses will ensure you take advantage of every moment of the action. Stay tuned as we reveal the most reliable VPN options to enhance your streaming experience while safeguarding your online privacy.
We’ll review each of our recommendations in greater detail later, but if you just want to see which VPNs are best for watching Australian TV abroad, we’ve summarized them below.
Here is our list of the best VPNs for watching Australian TV abroad:
- NordVPN: Our top choice for watching Australian TV! NordVPN provides fast connection speeds, numerous advanced security features, and a no-logs policy. Includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.
TIP In our testing we found that the cheapest NordVPN plan (Standard) works perfectly for Australian TV. - Surfshark: Best budget option for watching Aussie TV from anywhere. A versatile, security-first VPN that unblocks plenty of Australian streaming services abroad.
- IPVanish: A lightweight, high-speed VPN for Australian TV with strong security, excellent multi-platform support, and no connection limit.
- ExpressVPN: A well-respected VPN with excellent security and privacy features, as well as strong unblocking capability, including 7Plus and 9Now.
- PureVPN: Great all-rounder with servers in over 65 countries, including Australia. Robust privacy and security features. Apps for all platforms — even the Linux app has a GUI.Â
- ProtonVPN: High-quality VPN perfect for techy users. Fast and reliably accesses popular streaming platforms. Independently audited no logging policy and high-security servers.
- CyberGhost: Powerful yet inexpensive, this service is easy to use and able to unblock several streaming platforms abroad. It even offers pre-configured security features.
- PrivateVPN: This VPN has customizable apps, keeps no logs, and can reliably unblock several popular geo-restricted platforms in Australia and abroad. It allows port forwarding and has an effective stealth mode.
Many VPNs claim to work with Australian TV but most (especially free VPNs) are often blocked.
We regularly test the top 70 VPNs with all major streaming sites and this list only includes VPNs which reliably unblock Australian TV and offer a full money-back guarantee, allowing you to try them risk-free.
How to stream live Australian TV from abroad with a VPN
VPNs might seem complicated, but they’re effortless to use. Follow the steps below to unblock Australian streaming platforms from anywhere. This will allow you to stream Australian TV for free for non-paid channels.
Here’s how to watch Australian TV online overseas:
- Begin by signing up for one of the VPNs mentioned below (we recommend NordVPN).
- Download and install the software, ensuring you get the correct version for your connected device.
- Connect to any of your VPN’s Australian servers to get a local IP address.
- Try accessing a geo-blocked Australian site. Online content should load immediately, although you may have to clear your browser’s cookies and cache and refresh the page first.
- If issues persist, you will need to reach out to your VPN provider for further support.
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There's no catch—just contact support within 30 days if you decide NordVPN isn't right for you and you'll get a full refund. Start your NordVPN trial here.
Best VPNs for watching Australian TV abroad – Our hands-on review
We’ve compared the most important features of the top VPNs here. Prefer to read the in-depth reviews? Start with NordVPN – our #1 choice for watching Australian TV abroad.
No value | NordVPN | Surfshark | IPVanish | ExpressVPN | PureVPN | Proton VPN | CyberGhost | PrivateVPN |
Website | NordVPN.com | Surfshark.com | IPVanish.com | ExpressVPN.com | PureVPN.com | ProtonVPN.com | Cyberghost.com | PrivateVPN.com | Ranking for Australian TV: | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | Australian Servers | 190+ servers | 90+ servers | 50+ servers | 4 cities | 4 cities | 80+ servers | 150+ servers | 20+ servers | Avg Speed (Mbps) | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 74 Mbps | Devices Supported | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Smart TVs, Routers | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Smart TVs, Chromebook, Routers | Windows, Linux, MacOS, iOS, Android, Chromebook | Windows, MacOS, Linux, iOS, Android | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Amazon Fire TV | Simultaneous Connections | 10 | Unlimited | Unlimited | 8 | 10 | Free: 1, VPN Plus: 10 | 7 | 10 |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Best deal (per month) | $2.99 74% off 2 year plans + 3 EXTRA months | $1.99 87% OFF + 4 months free | $6.49 Best MONTHLY deal | $4.99 SAVE: 61% + 4 months free on 2 year plans | $1.99 85% off the 5-yr standard plan | $4.49 SAVE 55% on a 2-year plan | $2.19 SAVE 83% on the 2 year plan + 2 months free! | $2.00 Save 85% on a one year plan + 24-months free |
Our criteria for selecting VPNs for Aussie TV
We evaluate each VPN provider on several fronts before making our recommendations. We considered the following when finding the best VPNs for Australian TV.
- Streaming access: We tested each VPN provider with popular Australian streaming services and big-name international platforms. We also looked at each provider’s number of Australian server locations.
- Speed: To find out whether VPNs were suitable for streaming Australian TV in high resolution, we carried out multiple speed tests while connected to each VPN’s servers in Australia.
- Security and privacy: To find the VPNs best able to keep your connection private and secure while streaming Aussie TV, we scored them against 16 different criteria. We were interested in things like encryption strength, key length and leak protection.
- Ease of use: To help you get access to Australian TV as simply as possible, we looked for the easiest to use providers. We found these by evaluating each VPN against 10 different metrics covering everything from app design to the sign-up process.
- Value for money: To find the best value VPNs for Australian TV, we scored providers on eight different metrics. These included everything from the monthly price to the number of permitted connections.
If you want to read more about our tests and see an analysis of the results, check out the methodology section later in the article.
Best VPNs for streaming Australian TV
Based on our research, take a look below to find the best VPNs for watching Australian TV online:
1. NordVPN
Dec 2024 UNBLOCKS AUSTRALIAN TVTested Dec 2024
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
- FireTV
VPN Ratings:
Overall score: | 9.6 / 10 |
---|---|
Australia speed: | 10.0 / 10 |
Ease of use: | 9.6 / 10 |
Security & privacy: | 9.5 / 10 |
Streaming access: | 9.4 / 10 |
Value for money: | 9.5 / 10 |
Website: www.NordVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
NordVPN has a very large network, with over 6,000 servers spread across 111+ countries (and 190+ servers in Australia alone). Its exceptional unblocking ability makes it a strong choice for anyone looking to watch Australian TV channels abroad. Better still, with up to 10 connections allowed, you can protect most, if not all, of your devices simultaneously.
To determine the speed of NordVPN’s Australia servers, we carried out multiple speed tests over the course of a day. The results are below.
The speeds averaged 155.78 Mbps overall, more than 60 Mbps faster than the combined average download speed of the other tested providers. This means users will have no problems streaming Australian TV in the highest resolution available.
NordVPN includes a wide range of security options. To begin with, there’s 256-bit encryption, a customizable kill switch, an ad blocker, a malware scanner, and protection against DNS, IPv6, WebRTC, and port-forwarding leaks. You can also choose to access Tor over VPN or use two layers of encryption instead of one. Further, NordVPN has a no-logs policy. Customer support is available 24/7 over live chat if you need any assistance.
NordVPN has Windows, Linux, Mac, Android, and iOS apps. It can be manually installed on select wireless routers.
Buy this VPN if:
- You want the fastest connection speeds
- You want access to a range of diverse streaming platforms
- You want easy access to the Tor network
- You want obfuscation that works in China
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You do a lot of torrenting and want port forwarding
BEST VPN FOR AUSTRALIAN TV:NordVPN is our first choice. Lets you stream Australian content effortlessly. It’s a security-conscious VPN offering fast connections and excellent unblocking potential. It even includes a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full NordVPN review.
2. Surfshark
UNBLOCKS AUSTRALIAN TVTested Dec 2024
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
VPN Ratings:
Overall score: | 9.3 / 10 |
---|---|
Australia speed: | 9.1 / 10 |
Ease of use: | 8.9 / 10 |
Security & privacy: | 9.5 / 10 |
Streaming access: | 9.2 / 10 |
Value for money: | 9.7 / 10 |
Website: www.Surfshark.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
Surfshark offers access to around 3,200+ servers in 100+ countries, including Australia. With unlimited bandwidth and the ability to unblock major platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, 7plus, SBS, 10Play, and 9Now, it’s perfect for anyone looking to stay up-to-date with their favorite shows while on vacation. What’s more, Surfshark has no connection limit, meaning you won’t have to leave one of your devices unsecured just because you want to watch on the go.
Speeds were excellent, which we discovered by testing the provider’s servers in Australia. You can see how they performed below.
The provider was consistently fast, pegging an average download speed of 152 Mbps. This is fast enough to stream Australian TV in 4K where available.
This VPN uses 256-bit AES encryption, protection against DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC leaks, and a kill switch to keep your online activities private at all times. It blocks ads and malware automatically, and if you’re visiting a country with strict online censorship, the NoBorders feature will let you access the web as you normally would. Surfshark doesn’t log any personally identifiable information but you can pay in Bitcoin for added privacy if you’d like. Support is available 24/7 over live chat.
Surfshark provides apps for Windows, Linux, MacOS, iOS, and Android. It can be manually installed on supported network routers.
Buy this VPN if:
- You want to share an account with friends and family
- You want fast speeds for Aussie TV
- You have a device running Linux
- You want an easy way to create online personas
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You want a provider that isn’t based in a Nine Eyes country
BEST BUDGET PROVIDER:Surfshark is a low-cost VPN with a major focus on security and privacy. Also provides user-friendly apps and speeds that are fast enough for lag-free content streaming. Best of all, all plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
3. IPVanish
UNBLOCKS AUSTRALIAN TVTested Dec 2024
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
VPN Ratings:
Overall score: | 8.9 / 10 |
---|---|
Australia speed: | 7.4 / 10 |
Ease of use: | 9.4 / 10 |
Security & privacy: | 8.9 / 10 |
Streaming access: | 9.2 / 10 |
Value for money: | 9.6 / 10 |
Website: www.IPVanish.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
IPVanish has over 2,200 servers in around 75+ countries worldwide, including Australia. It works with various streaming platforms — including Australian and international services.
We tested IPVanish’s servers in Australia to determine their speed. The results are below.
The provider consistently achieved speeds above 100 Mbps, with an average overall speed of 128.42 Mbps. This was faster than the combined average speed of the other providers we tested and a great result for anyone interested in this VPN for streaming.
While most of its rivals allow around ten simultaneous connections, IPVanish has no limit, meaning it’s ideal for those looking to protect all their devices simultaneously.
This service keeps you safe at all times using a combination of 256-bit encryption, a kill switch (in desktop apps), and protection against DNS and IPv6 leaks. Users can connect automatically when on an untrusted network or attempt to reconnect immediately should the connection drop unexpectedly. IPVanish doesn’t log any personally identifiable information and has proved this with an independent audit. Need help? You can contact support over live chat, 24/7.
IPVanish provides Windows, Android, Amazon Fire TV Firestick, MacOS, and iOS apps. It works on Linux-based platforms and select network routers but must be configured manually.
The company’s Advanced plan includes a sandboxed secure browser and 1TB of cloud storage.
Buy this VPN if:
- You want unlimited simultaneous device connections
- You’d use a SOCKS5 proxy
- You want features like a secure browser and cloud storage
- You want a low-cost subscription
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You’re connecting from China
- You’re not comfortable using a US-based provider
PROTECT EVERY DEVICE:IPVanish boasts high speeds, strong security, a no-logs policy, and a total lack of a connection limit. Its annual plans include a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full IPVanish review.
4. ExpressVPN
UNBLOCKS AUSTRALIAN TVTested Dec 2024
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
VPN Ratings:
Overall score: | 8.7 / 10 |
---|---|
Australia speed: | 6.6 / 10 |
Ease of use: | 9.31 / 10 |
Security & privacy: | 9.2 / 10 |
Streaming access: | 9.81 / 10 |
Value for money: | 8.4 / 10 |
Website: www.ExpressVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
ExpressVPN offers access to over 3,000 servers in 105+ countries, including Australia. It has a solid unblocking ability and allows you to use platforms like 10Play, 7Plus, and 9Now from anywhere in the world.
We tested the provider’s speeds while connected to its servers in Australia. As you can see from the chart below, the speeds were solid.
ExpressVPN 92.88 Mbps overall, which is more than fast enough for streaming high resolution Australian TV without any lag or noticeable buffering.
This VPN keeps your traffic private with 256-bit encryption, perfect forward secrecy, and protection against IPv6 and DNS leaks. A kill switch (in desktop versions) also stops all data transfer if your internet connection drops suddenly. You can pay with Bitcoin if you’d like, but as ExpressVPN logs no personally identifiable information, your online activities can’t be traced back to you either way. Customer support can be reached 24/7 over live chat.
ExpressVPN apps are available for Linux, MacOS, Windows, Android, and iOS. Custom firmware is also designed to make using this service with a home router as easy as possible.
Buy this VPN if:
- You want to stream on VPN-incompatible devices
- You want to protect a VPN on your router
- You want always-on obfuscation
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You’re looking for the cheapest option
- You want customizable apps
GREAT FOR STREAMING:ExpressVPN is fast and reliable.. It prioritizes your privacy and boasts excellent streaming abilities. What’s more, it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full ExpressVPN review.
5. PureVPN
Unblocks Australian TVTested Dec 2024
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
VPN Ratings:
Overall score: | 8.3 / 10 |
---|---|
Australia speed: | 8.31 / 10 |
Ease of use: | 9.1 / 10 |
Security & privacy: | 8.7 / 10 |
Streaming access: | 7.1 / 10 |
Value for money: | 8.1 / 10 |
Website: www.PureVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 31 DAYS
PureVPN is an effective and cheap way for travelers to keep up with Australian TV services. Its large network of over 6,000 servers in over 65 countries provides extensive coverage. This network includes servers in Sydney, allowing access to local services such as Kayo Sports and Foxtel and Australian internet banking, shopping, and Aussie-specific Google search results.
For streaming enthusiasts, PureVPN is not limited to Australian content; it also supports major platforms like Netflix US, Hulu, HBO Max, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and various British and international TV services. While torrenting is permitted, an additional charge is required for port forwarding.
We carried out several speed tests while connected to PureVPN servers in Australia. The results are shown in the chart below.
The provider was extremely quick, with speeds averaging 149.66 Mbps. It was more than 55 Mbps faster than the average combined download speed of the other providers. This makes PureVPN suitable for a variety of tasks, such as gaming, torrenting and, of course, streaming.
In terms of security, PureVPN offers AES encryption, a kill switch, DNS leak protection, and a strict no-logging policy. This ensures your online activities are secure on public Wi-Fi networks in locations such as airports and cafes. The VPN’s encryption means you can also watch Aussie TV platforms at work without being monitored.
While customer support does have slower response times, this is a small caveat considering the cost. Plus, thanks to its 31-day money-back guarantee, you can test the VPN yourself to make sure it works with your specific streaming accounts.
Buy this VPN if:
- You want a cheap, long-term subscription
- You want easy access to Australian streaming platforms
- You want always-on obfuscation
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You want a built-in ad-blocker
- You need multi-hop servers
LOW COST:PureVPN is a low-cost VPN that is a great all-rounder. You can use it to watch Aussie TV on vacation or at work. It has servers in over 65 countries, including Australia. Robust privacy and security features. Fast WireGuard protocol and apps for all platforms. 31-day money-back guarantee.
Find out more in our PureVPN review.
6. ProtonVPN
unblocks Australian TVTested Dec 2024
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
VPN Ratings:
Overall score: | 7.8 / 10 |
---|---|
Australia speed: | 5.7 / 10 |
Ease of use: | 8.81 / 10 |
Security & privacy: | 9.31 / 10 |
Streaming access: | 7.9 / 10 |
Value for money: | 7.4 / 10 |
Website: www.ProtonVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
ProtonVPN stands out as an impressive option if you want a highly reliable and advanced VPN with super fast speeds and plenty of servers in Australia. It is a touch more expensive than some of our top recommendations on the longer plans. However, you get what you pay for — a VPN with many advanced features that are particularly well-suited to techy users.
The VPN is based in Switzerland, and it upholds a stringent no-logs policy, ensuring the confidentiality of your online activities at all times. The VPN also has self-owned Secure Core servers in 67+ out of 112+ countries overall for those who require the highest possible privacy levels.
ProtonVPN is compatible with all major devices and comes equipped with AES encryption, various protocol options, obfuscation, split tunneling, multi-hop connections, Secure Core, and the integration of Tor over VPN. This makes it suitable for bypassing blocks in countries where online censorship and surveillance are prevalent.
It is also worth noting that if you only need a VPN to go on vacation, the monthly plan is cheaper than some of its competitors – so for a short-term plan this VPN is arguably the best. During testing, ProtonVPN worked to access tons of popular streaming platforms from around the globe, including national Aussie TV services and big-name providers such as Netflix US, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, HBO Max, and many others.
To find out what kind of speeds users might expect, we tested ProtonVPN’s Australia servers. You can see the results below.
ProtonVPN was slower than the preceding providers, but still fast enough for streaming. It’s average speed overall was 55.11 Mbps, which is far higher than speed needed to stream Netflix in UHD (15 Mbps). However, bear in mind that our base connection speed was 250 Mbps. If you have a much slower connection, then you’d be better off using one of the other providers we’ve discussed previously.
Customer support is available via live chat on its website, and you can try the VPN risk-free with its 30-day money-back guarantee. It even has port forwarding included, making it a superb option for torrenting.
Buy this VPN if:
- You want lots of servers to choose from
- Security and privacy are important to you
- You do a lot of torrenting and want port forwarding
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You have a very slow internet connection
- You’re looking for the cheapest subscription
HIGHLY ADVANCED:ProtonVPN is a high-quality VPN that is perfect for techy users. It works with numerous popular streaming platforms, and has an audited no-logs policy, strong AES encryption, and a kill switch. 30-day money-back guarantee to test it yourself.
Find out more in our ProtonVPN review.
7. CyberGhost
UNBLOCKS AUSTRALIAN TVTested Dec 2024
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
VPN Ratings:
Overall score: | 7.7 / 10 |
---|---|
Australia speed: | 4.0 / 10 |
Ease of use: | 9.1 / 10 |
Security & privacy: | 8.9 / 10 |
Streaming access: | 7.2 / 10 |
Value for money: | 9.5 / 10 |
Website: www.Cyberghost.com
Money-back guarantee: 45 DAYS
CyberGhost has Australian servers in Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane and over 11,500 in 100+ other countries. Usefully, it tells you which servers are best for streaming 9Now, 10play, and Netflix, so there’s minimal hassle. What’s more, CyberGhost allows up to seven simultaneous connections, so you can stream safely whether you’re at home or on the go.
To try and gauge what the streaming experience would be like, we carried out several speed tests while connected to CyberGhost’s servers in Australia.
CyberGhost averaged 26.15 Mbps across the day. Although it was the slowest provider we tested, it was still suitable for streaming. However, if you have a particularly slow connection, you’d be advised to opt for one of our other recommended providers.
This VPN takes the hassle out of staying safe online, as its security features come pre-configured. These include 256-bit encryption, automatic ad blocking, malware scanning, an always-on kill switch (present in every version), and protection against DNS and IPv6 leaks. CyberGhost doesn’t log any information that could identify you but allows you to pay with Bitcoin for added anonymity. Live chat is available 24/7.
CyberGhost offers Linux, Windows, Android, MacOS, and iOS apps. Manual installation is required for select internet routers.
Buy this VPN if:
- You want servers optimized for particular Australian streaming platforms
- You’re new to VPN software
- You want a cheap subscription
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You might need to connect more than seven devices simultaneously
- You have slow broadband
GOOD FOR BEGINNERS:CyberGhost is an easy-to-use VPN that works with popular Australian streaming services abroad. It offers comprehensive security and privacy features, and comes with a 45-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full CyberGhost review.
8. PrivateVPN
UNBLOCKS AUSTRALIAN TVTested Dec 2024
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
VPN Ratings:
Overall score: | 7.4 / 10 |
---|---|
Australia speed: | 4.91 / 10 |
Ease of use: | 8.6 / 10 |
Security & privacy: | 8.6 / 10 |
Streaming access: | 6.9 / 10 |
Value for money: | 8.2 / 10 |
Website: www.PrivateVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
PrivateVPN has 200 or so servers covering 63+ countries (with four in Australia). It works reliably with a huge range of streaming services abroad. PrivateVPN allows 10 connections at once so you can browse securely on whichever device you prefer.
We tested PrivateVPN over a day while connected to its servers in Australia.
The provider averaged 51.96 Mbps overall, which is decent enough, provided you have relatively fast broadband (our base connection speed while testing was 250 Mbps). If not, there are several other high-speed providers in this list.
256-bit encryption is enabled by default, but PrivateVPN keeps you safe using a kill switch (on Windows), DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC leak protection. There’s even a stealth mode designed to help you beat strict VPN detection systems. This VPN has a true no-logs policy, so your privacy is in good hands, even if you choose not to pay with Bitcoin. Live chat is available most of the day, though we’d have preferred it to be staffed 24/7.
PrivateVPN apps are available for MacOS, Windows, iOS, and Android. The VPN must be manually configured before use on Linux systems or supported routers.
Buy this VPN if:
- You want easy access to Australian streaming services
- You want a low-cost subscription
- You do a lot of torrenting and want port forwarding
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You have slow internet
- You want access to more than one server location in Australia
NO-FUSS STREAMING:PrivateVPN has customizable apps and is log-free, security-focused, and able to securely access services like Amazon Prime Video and Netflix abroad. A 30-day money-back guarantee is included.
Read our full PrivateVPN review.
Our methodology: Choosing the best VPNs for Australian TV
There are thousands of VPNs out there, so narrowing our list down to just eight of the best providers is never easy. One of the ways we eliminate candidates is by being extremely strict about the type of VPNs we include – we’ll never recommend services we haven’t personally tested, and even then, they have to meet all of the criteria below:
Streaming access
We first scored providers on whether they could access the following popular Australian streaming services: 7Plus, 10Play, and ABC iview. We then scored them on how well they could access international platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video. To gauge their server availability in Australia, we scored providers on how many server locations they had in the country (providers are sometimes reluctant to reveal actual server numbers). We combined these scores to give us an overall streaming access score out of 10. This makes it easier to compare providers.
As you can see from the chart above, ExpressVPN had the best streaming access for Australia. It worked with every platform we tried it with and it had plenty of Australian servers available. NordVPN is a great alternative.
Speed
There’s little point being able to access Australian TV if your VPN makes your connection too slow to watch it. While there is always some speed loss due to the additional routing and encryption processes when using a VPN, there are often large differences between providers.
To find the fastest VPNs, we carried out multiple speed tests while connected to each provider’s Australia servers. We used a virtual machine for testing that had been rate-limited to 250 Mbps. This is the median average of fixed broadband speeds in the US, and thus most likely to reflect users’ real-world experiences. Measurements were take using the desktop version of the Ookla speed-testing app.
NordVPN was the fastest provider overall, though Surfshark was a very close second. PureVPN was also notably fast. All three VPNs are suitable for a variety of tasks where fast connections are a necessity, including gaming, torrenting and streaming.
Security and privacy
A VPN’s main purpose is to shield your activities from snoopers. To achieve this, they need to implement a variety of security and privacy features. The features we consider to be most important are shown below.
VPN Provider | Activity logs | IP logs | Encryption | Authentication | Keys | Perfect Forward Secrecy | DNS leak protection | IPv6 leak protection | Private DNS | Torrenting allowed | Kill switch | HQ outside 9 eyes | Obfuscation | Supported protocols | Anonymous payment options | Additional security features |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Category | Security | Security | Security | Security | Security | Security | Security | Security | Security | Security | Security | Security | Security | Security | Security | Security |
NordVPN | No activity logs | No IP logs | AES-128 or higher | SHA-384 | 4096-bit | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | All platforms | Yes | Stealth | Own protocol | Multiple | Yes |
Surfshark | No activity logs | No IP logs | AES-128 or higher | SHA-512 | 4096-bit | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Mobile app-level | No | Stealth | Secure protocols only | Multiple | Yes |
IPVanish | No activity logs | No IP logs | AES-128 or higher | SHA-256 | 4096-bit | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | All platforms | Yes | Stealth | Secure protocols only | None | No |
ExpressVPN | No activity logs | No IP logs | AES-128 or higher | SHA-512 | 4096-bit | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Mobile app-level | Yes | Automatic | Own protocol | Multiple | No |
PureVPN | No activity logs | No IP logs | AES-128 or higher | SHA-256 | 4096-bit | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Some platforms | Yes | Automatic | Secure protocols only | One | No |
Proton VPN | No activity logs | No IP logs | AES-128 or higher | SHA-512 | 2048-bit | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | All platforms | Yes | Stealth | Secure protocols only | One | Yes |
CyberGhost | No activity logs | No IP logs | AES-128 or higher | SHA-256 | 4096-bit | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | All platforms | Yes | Stealth | Secure protocols only | Multiple | No |
PrivateVPN | No activity logs | No IP logs | AES-128 or higher | SHA-256 | 2048-bit | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Some platforms | Yes | Stealth | Secure protocols only | One | No |
Each of the above criteria is given a score, which we combine to create an overall score out of ten. We can then use this to meaningfully compare providers.
NordVPN and Surfshark scored highest in terms of security and privacy. Both providers combine powerful obfuscation with strong encryption and anonymous payment options.
Ease of use
We prioritize VPNs that try to make things as simple as possible. This might mean removing their connection limits, providing 24/7 support via live chat, or any of the other metrics shown in the table below.
VPN Provider | Apps for all major platforms | Novice-friendly design | Ease of signup (reviewer to score) | Router support | Unblocking consistency | Task specific servers | Network | Ease of cancellation | Interface | Feature parity |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Category | Ease of Use | Ease of Use | Ease of Use | Ease of Use | Ease of Use | Ease of Use | Ease of Use | Ease of Use | Ease of Use | Ease of Use |
NordVPN | Yes | Yes | 5 (easy) | Standard | Great | Yes | 60+ countries | Very easy | Well-organised | Most features available on all versions |
Surfshark | Yes | Yes | 4 | Standard | Great | No | 60+ countries | Very easy | A little cluttered | Most features available on all versions |
IPVanish | Yes | Yes | 5 (easy) | Standard | Great | No | 60+ countries | Very easy | Well-organised | Most features available on all versions |
ExpressVPN | Yes | Yes | 5 (easy) | App | Generally works | No | 60+ countries | Very easy | Well-organised | All features available on all versions |
PureVPN | Yes | Yes | 3 | App | Great | Yes | 60+ countries | Very easy | A little cluttered | Most features available on all versions |
Proton VPN | Yes | Yes | 4 | Standard | Great | Yes | 60+ countries | Very easy | Takes some getting used to | Most features available on all versions |
CyberGhost | Yes | Yes | 4 | Standard | Great | Yes | 60+ countries | Very easy | A little cluttered | Most features available on all versions |
PrivateVPN | Yes | Yes | 4 | Standard | Generally works | No | 60+ countries | Very easy | Well-organised | Most features available on all versions |
We scored providers on each of the above, and then combined these scores to give a score out of 10 for comparison.
NordVPN was the easiest to use service overall, combining well-designed apps with a hassle-free sign-up process. IPVanish is a great alternative if you value an easy life.
Value for money
We only recommend VPNs that provide good value for money. We evaluate them according to the criteria outlined in the table below.
VPN Provider | Money-back guarantee | Connection limit | Subscription terms | Sale frequency | Monthly pricing | Lowest price | Free trial available | Student discount |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Category | Value for Money | Value for Money | Value for Money | Value for Money | Value for Money | Value for Money | Value for Money | Value for Money |
NordVPN | Yes | 6+ | 3 terms+ | Frequently running deals | <$13 | <$5 | Yes | Yes |
Surfshark | Yes | Unlimited | 3 terms+ | Frequently running deals | <$10 | <$5 | Yes | Yes |
IPVanish | Yes | Unlimited | 3 terms+ | Frequently running deals | <$13 | <$5 | Yes | Yes |
ExpressVPN | Yes | 6+ | 3 terms+ | Frequently running deals | $15+ | $5+ | Yes | Yes |
PureVPN | Yes | 6+ | 3 terms+ | Frequently running deals | <$13 | <$5 | Yes | No |
Proton VPN | Yes | 6+ | 3 terms+ | Frequently running deals | <$10 | $5+ | Yes | No |
CyberGhost | Yes | 6+ | 3 terms+ | Frequently running deals | <$13 | <$5 | Yes | Yes |
PrivateVPN | Yes | 6+ | 3 terms+ | Frequently running deals | <$10 | <$5 | Yes | No |
We assign a score to each of these criteria so that we’re left with an overall score out of ten. This makes it easier to compare providers.
Surfshark offered the best value overall, with a low-cost subscriptions and no device connection limit. IPVanish is also good value for money.
Can I stream Australian TV abroad with a free VPN?
While free VPNs can be an appealing prospect, we advise against using one. First, they often have fewer servers than paid VPNs, yet more online users. This means you’ll likely experience very slow connection speeds, which makes streaming difficult, if not impossible. It’s also worth noting that free VPNs are usually the first to be blocked by streaming platforms, so even if your service offers Australian servers (which not all do), you still might not be able to watch anything.
Free Virtual Private Network providers don’t bill the user directly, but they do have other ways to make money. These methods might include inserting ads into the pages you visit or allowing you to pay for increased speeds. However, some services use shadier tactics. For instance, they can store tracking cookies on your device and harvest valuable information, including which sites you visit and how often. Over time, this data can be compiled into a consumer profile and sold to advertisers, likely without your knowledge.
Finally, there’s no easy way to tell if your chosen VPN is safe or not. In the past, we’ve seen well-known services abuse their online users’ trust, like when Hola helped run a botnet with user bandwidth. Smaller services aren’t necessarily more trustworthy, though; a 2016 study of free VPNs found that almost 40% contained malware, over 80% were vulnerable to IPv6 leaks, and 18% never used any encryption at all.
The best way to protect yourself online is to use a well-established, trustworthy VPN with a customer-first privacy policy.
What Australian TV can I watch free overseas?
With a suitable VPN, you can stream Australian TV services free from overseas so long as it is a free-to-view channel. This means if you are traveling internationally, you can still access popular Australian TV channels free with a VPN, including:
- ABC iView
- SBS On Demand
- 7Plus
- 9Now
- Ten play (Channel 10)
What Australian content can I watch with a VPN?
Once you connect to an Australian VPN server, you can use the internet and securely access your usual services while traveling abroad. This means that you’ll be able to stream content from platforms like TenPlay, 9Now, 7plus, Stan, and Foxtel Now. Here’s a list of shows you can stream from abroad with a suitable VPN:
- West Australian Football League (7plus)
- Real Housewives of Dubai (7plus)
- 90 Day Fiance (9Now)
- Married at First Sight Australia (9Now)
- Love Island Australia (9Now)
- House Hunters International (9Now)
- Heatwave (Netflix Australia)
- Irreverent (Netflix Australia)
- The Bachelor (TenPlay)
- The Challenge Australia (TenPlay)
- RuPaul’s Drag Race (Stan)
- Billions (Stan)
What else can I use a VPN for?
While VPNs let you stream Australian TV series and content abroad, they also have several other uses. For instance, you can use them to circumvent web filtering when connected to public Wi-Fi networks or when in a country with strict online censorship. This means you’ll be able to use foreign gambling and gaming sites, even if your country usually blocks them.
Since your traffic is encrypted, you can safely use Westpac, CBA, and ANZ online banking without having to worry about intercepting your data. Additionally, many services use automated systems to restrict access to your account if it’s accessed from another country. However, by connecting to a VPN server in your home country beforehand, you significantly reduce the chance of this happening.
See also: Best Australia VPNs
How to stream Australian TV FAQs
What is the most popular sport on Australian TV?
Cricket, rugby, and Aussie rules football are some of Australia’s most popular sports. As you might expect, these are given plenty of coverage on TV, particularly during major events like The Ashes or the Rugby World Cup.
Is it legal to use a VPN to watch Australian TV?
If you’re legally allowed to stream Australian TV, then whether you’re connected to a VPN or not makes no difference. Australia currently has no laws in place banning VPN usage, and unless you’re using a VPN to commit crimes online, there’s no reason you should get into any trouble.
How can I optimize my VPN speed for watching Australian TV?
If you’re suffering from slow speeds from your VPN while watching Australian TV, the good news is that there are multiple ways you can optimize it.Â
In particular, we recommend you connect to a server that’s closer to your physical location. That way, data has less distance to travel and you should have faster speeds as a result. It’s also worth checking server load as well — some VPNs display this next to each server. Be sure to check you’re using the fastest VPN protocol possible as well. Most of the best VPNs for Australian TV have implemented WireGuard which is highly suitable for streaming.
Note also that some VPNs have a split tunneling feature through which you can have Netflix bypass the VPN connection for faster speeds. Don’t worry, your other apps will remain secured. Last but not least, a cable connection tends to be faster. If you’re on a desktop device, you could connect it to your router via an ethernet cable for faster speeds. Of course, it also helps to make sure you’re using one of the fastest VPNs, all of which are optimized for streaming.
Hi Ian,
Thanks a lot for this amazing blog
I have a clarification. Does NordVPN works in Malaysia for Australian Channels?
Hi Bridget, as long as you use an Australian server, you should be able to securely access your usual services, no matter where you are (including Malaysia). Thanks, Ian
hi there… i had been using Astrill VPN, then this got blocked by KAYO, re ‘you are using VPN …’, 4 weeks ago signed up with ExpressVPN, all ok with Kayo, and NOW this week ‘you are using VPN …’ been blocked by Kayo … has kayo changed something or anyone else have issues?
Anyone experiencing my issues ???
Shane in Japan
Hi Shane, this is actually quite common – streaming services are consistently improving their VPN-detection methods, which can lead to specific services being blocked. However, it usually doesn’t take long for the VPNs to find a workaround. If you’re still having issues, I’d recommend trying a few different servers or asking ExpressVPN support for help directly. Thanks, Ian